Name: Mexican Taco Pasta: 30-Minute Flavorful One-Pot Meal
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: ½ lb small pasta shells; 2 cups Cheddar cheese (shredded); 4 oz Velveeta cheese (cubed); 1 lb lean ground beef; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter; 1 tablespoon garlic (minced); 2 tbs taco seasoning; 1 tbs Worcestershire; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 10 oz Rotel Tomatoes; 2 tbs tomato paste; 1 tsp parsley (chopped for garnish)

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Mexican Taco Pasta combines the flavors of your favorite tacos with the comforting texture of pasta. This dish is an absolute delight for taco lovers and pasta enthusiasts alike. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with savory ground beef, making it perfect for a quick dinner or a fun family meal. The one-pot method makes cleanup a breeze, and you can have a delicious meal on the table in just 30 minutes. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious dish!

Why You’ll Love This Mexican Taco Pasta

This Mexican Taco Pasta recipe is not only easy to make, but it also offers a variety of benefits. First, it’s a one-pot taco pasta meal, which means less cleanup! Secondly, the combination of creamy taco pasta with ground beef and cheese ensures that every bite is bursting with flavor. It’s also versatile; you can easily customize it with vegetarian taco pasta options or add taco pasta with black beans for a hearty twist. Plus, it’s a quick Mexican Taco Pasta recipe that can be on your table in 30 minutes. This dish is great for families, and it’s gluten-free, making it suitable for various diets!

Ingredients for Mexican Taco Pasta

Gather these items:

½ lb small pasta shells
2 cups Cheddar cheese (shredded)
4 oz Velveeta cheese (cubed)
1 lb lean ground beef
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 tablespoon garlic (minced)
2 tbs taco seasoning
1 tbs Worcestershire
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
10 oz Rotel Tomatoes
2 tbs tomato paste
1 tsp parsley (chopped for garnish)

How to Make Mexican Taco Pasta Step-by-Step

Step 1: Add butter to the bottom of the Dutch oven over medium heat.
Step 2: Once melted, add the ground beef and chopped onion to the pot.
Step 3: Cook the beef until no pink remains, then drain any excess grease.
Step 4: Add garlic to the mixture, and cook for 60 seconds, or until fragrant.
Step 5: Add Worcestershire, chicken broth, heavy cream, taco seasoning, tomato paste, and Rotel tomatoes to the pot. Stir until thoroughly combined.
Step 6: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then add the pasta to the pot, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
Step 7: Once the pasta is done cooking (about 9 minutes), turn heat down to low.
Step 8: Slowly add the shredded cheddar cheese and cubed Velveeta to the mixture.
Step 9: Stir frequently to melt and allow the pasta to soak up the sauce.

Pro Tips for the Best Mexican Taco Pasta

Keep these in mind:

This dish serves well as a quick weeknight meal.
Customize with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream or green onions.
For an extra kick, consider adding jalapeños or more taco seasoning.
Use gluten-free pasta if needed to suit your diet.

Best Ways to Serve Mexican Taco Pasta

This spicy taco pasta dish is perfect on its own, but you can elevate it with some sides. Serve it with a simple salad for a refreshing contrast or with tortilla chips for added crunch. You can even top it with avocado slices or a dollop of sour cream to enhance the flavors. If you’re hosting a gathering, this taco pasta for a crowd is always a hit!

Ingredients for Mexican Taco Pasta including pasta, cheese, and spices

How to Store and Reheat Mexican Taco Pasta

To store, place any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to revive the creamy sauce. This makes it a great choice for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Mexican Taco Pasta

What’s the secret to perfect Mexican Taco Pasta?

The secret lies in cooking the pasta just until al dente and allowing it to absorb the flavors of the sauce. Regular stirring will help to prevent sticking and ensure an even coating of flavor.

Can I make Mexican Taco Pasta ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and cook the dish when ready to serve. Just be cautious with the pasta, as it can become mushy if cooked too far in advance.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Mexican Taco Pasta?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure the beef is well-drained and avoid overcooking the pasta. Stirring frequently helps to incorporate the flavors and prevents sticking!

Variations of Mexican Taco Pasta You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with different proteins like chicken, or try a vegetarian taco pasta option by using beans or lentils instead of meat. You can also play with the taco pasta sauce variations by adding different spices or using a different type of cheese for a unique twist!

For more delicious recipes, check out last recipes or explore creamy potato soup for a comforting dish. If you’re interested in meal prep ideas, visit slow cooker Tuscan chicken for an easy option.